Monday, January 21, 2013

Hooked by Liz Fichera

When Native American Fredricka ‘Fred’ Oday is invited to become the only girl on the school’s golf team, she can’t say no. This is an opportunity to shine, win a scholarship and go to university, something no one in her family has done.

But Fred’s presence on the team isn’t exactly welcome — especially not to rich golden boy Ryan Berenger, whose best friend was kicked off the team to make a spot for Fred.

But there’s no denying that things are happening between the girl with the killer swing and the boy with the killer smile...

GET HOOKED ON A GIRL NAMED FRED.

At a Glance:

Hooked was a really fun read with a main character you're rooting for and a message you're hoping everyone will learn. With racism, betrayal, family struggles and heart ache, this is a book that will make you angry. But with fierce friendships, a little romance, and a new look at an old game, this is also a book that will pull on your heartstrings.

Cover:

Uh, unfortunately, I don't care for this cover. It's not that it's bad in and of itself, but it makes this look like a sexy romance novel, which it really wasn't at all. But I guess the saying is "sex sells" not "golf sells."

Action:

You wouldn't really expect it, but there is actually a decent amount of action in this book. There were some pretty intense fights, and a couple of scenes where I seriously feared for someone's life. Not to mention the intense battles on the golf course. Competition is fierce!

Romance:

There is a decent amount of tension, but not as much romance as you would think. I actually liked this a lot (though a little more wouldn't have hurt :P). The focus was really on overcoming prejudices, family and friendships, which made it really fantastic!

Heroine:

Fred (yes Fred, the girl) was an incredibly likable and admirable character. My only beef with her was that she was SO incredibly insecure and timid. I really wish she could have stood proudly a little more. However, I know that is hard when you feel like the whole world is against you. I didn't look down on her for it, I just hurt for her.

Hero:

At first I really did not like Ryan. I felt like he was a jerk at first, for the way he treated Fred, then I thought he was week for not standing up for her more. However, he does learn and grow and turn into the worthy hero he should be. In the end, I really just wanted him to get the girl. Also to punch Seth.

Favorite Supporting Character:

Fred's dad. Definitely. He was such an amazing father. I loved the relationship between Fred and her dad. He was so supportive and encouraging and just awesome. Yay for good dads!

Something I loved:

I loved getting a glimpse into the Native American Indian culture, without feeling lost. I think Liz did a really good job of including the reader in Fred's life and culture without making it seem like something we couldn't relate to. I also really loved the golfing aspect. It added a lot of intensity that I didn't expect from golf!

Something(s) I hated:

I hate saying this, but I did feel like some of the teen "slang" seemed a little forced.

Cliffhanger?

Nope, no cliffhanger here! There's going to be a companion novel based off of two of the minor characters in this book, and Ryan and Fred make an appearance, but this book is all wrapped up!